Abstract
Ti–C particulate reinforced Ti6Al4V metal matrix composites (Ti6Al4V + 10 wt-%TiC) have demonstrated a high strength-to-weight ratio as well as good high temperature properties. A poor fusion welding performance is commonly observed in these materials making solid-state diffusion bonding a potential process to produce complex structural components. This work aims to characterise the microstructure and the mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V + 10 wt-%TiC diffusion bonded joints. Microstructural evaluation has been performed using both optical and scanning electron microscopy. Mechanical characterisation consisted of room temperature microflat tensile tests for the different bonding conditions and microhardness along the joint. The best results were associated with a bonding temperature of 1000°C and pressure 5 MPa together with bonding times ranging from 35 to 60 min.
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